It is my honor to have been appointed as the new President of the Materials Research Society of Japan (MRS-J), succeeding former President Prof. Shigesato. My name is Dr. Shunichi Arisawa from the National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS).
Since its establishment, MRS-J has upheld the principle of "building international and interdisciplinary networks" as its core mission and has continued its activities accordingly. From an international perspective, as a member society of the International Union of Materials Research Societies (IUMRS), we have deepened our exchanges with overseas researchers through international conferences and other initiatives. In terms of interdisciplinarity, recognizing that materials science serves as a foundation for many academic fields, we have actively promoted cross-disciplinary collaboration. Moreover, while many domestic academic societies restrict presentations to their members, MRS-J allows presentations by non-members as well, reflecting our commitment to open and inclusive exchange. Additionally, the Materials Research Meeting (MRM), launched in 2019, embodies both this international and interdisciplinary spirit.
Materials science is currently advancing rapidly in various fields, including quantum devices, biotechnology, energy conversion and storage, and semiconductors. These technologies are indispensable for realizing a sustainable society, and they drive innovation in areas such as environmental protection, energy efficiency, and advanced healthcare. In particular, the development of environmental materials aimed at achieving a carbon-neutral society and the application of medical materials to healthcare are critical research areas for addressing global challenges in the years ahead.
Japan’s materials industry, traditionally one of its strengths, remains a major industry second only to the automotive sector and continues to maintain international competitiveness through the development and application of high-tech materials. Functional materials and electronic materials are especially strong areas for Japan, and these fields are constantly generating new innovations. However, society is undergoing significant changes. In materials science and related fields, research from China is surpassing that of Japan and Western countries in both quality and quantity. Moreover, the long-standing concern over the fragmentation of the supply chain between East and West has become increasingly evident even among Western nations, driven in part by recent U.S. policies.
Under these circumstances, MRS-J has an important mission to connect researchers both domestically and internationally, promote the exchange of research outcomes, and support the further development of materials science communities in Japan and around the world. We are also dedicated to nurturing young researchers and fostering the next generation of innovative technical talent.
Through these efforts, we will continue to work diligently so that Japanese materials science can contribute even more significantly to global technological innovation. I sincerely ask for the understanding and support of all our members and all related parties.
Dr. Shunichi Arisawa,
President of the Materials Research Society of Japan
